Nativism in America: Anti-Immigrant Sentiment — Reading Comprehension

During the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the United States experienced waves of immigration from Europe and Asia. This led to a rise in nativism, an attitude that favored native-born Americans over immigrants. Nativists believed immigrants threatened their jobs, culture, and even the country’s safety. As a result, anti-immigrant sentiment shaped American politics, society, and laws in significant ways.

Many nativists argued that immigrants would not assimilate into American society. They pointed to differences in language, religion, and customs. For example, Irish and German Catholic immigrants faced suspicion from Protestant Americans who feared their loyalty to the Pope. This belief in the superiority of native-born citizens created a climate of distrust and exclusion. Nativists often used newspapers and speeches to spread fear about immigrants, suggesting they were responsible for rising crime and unemployment.

The causes of nativism were complex. Economic competition was a major factor. Many immigrants took low-paying jobs in factories and railroads, leading some American workers to worry about losing their own employment. Political leaders sometimes encouraged anti-immigrant attitudes to gain votes. A primary source from the Know-Nothing Party stated, "Americans must rule America; and to this end, native-born citizens should be selected for all State, Federal, and municipal offices of government." This quote reflects the belief that only native-born Americans could be trusted with political power.

However, not everyone shared these views. Business owners saw immigrants as essential workers who fueled economic growth. Some Americans welcomed new cultures and traditions, arguing that the nation was built by immigrants from many backgrounds. Immigrant communities themselves worked hard to create support networks, build churches and schools, and participate in civic life.

Nativist movements took different forms. The Know-Nothing Party, officially called the American Party, rose to prominence in the 1850s. Its members pledged to fight the political influence of immigrants, especially Catholics. The party pushed for laws that made it harder for immigrants to vote or hold office. In the late 1800s, nativism shifted focus to Chinese immigrants, resulting in the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882. This was the first major federal law to prevent a specific group from coming to the United States. Later, quota laws limited immigrants from Southern and Eastern Europe.

The consequences of nativism were far-reaching. Many immigrants faced discrimination, violence, and legal barriers. Some were denied jobs or housing because of their background. At the same time, nativist policies often contradicted the nation’s ideals of freedom and opportunity. Debates over who belongs in America, and what it means to be "American," continue today.

Understanding nativism requires looking at multiple perspectives. While some Americans feared change, others saw diversity as a strength. Historians analyze these differences to understand how the United States has struggled with issues of identity and inclusion. By examining primary sources, like the Know-Nothing Party’s statements, students can see how words and laws influenced real people’s lives.

Interesting Fact: In the 1920s, U.S. laws restricted immigration so severely that the number of new arrivals dropped by over 90 percent in just a few years.

What is nativism?

Which group did the Know-Nothing Party target?

What law was passed in 1882?

Why did some Americans fear immigrants?

What did business owners think about immigrants?

The Know-Nothing Party believed what?

Nativism encouraged more immigration. True or false?

What is a quota?